Pakistan bounced back in style to level the T20I series against South Africa in Lahore. After losing the first match in Rawalpindi, the hosts put up a complete team performance to crush South Africa by nine wickets. The phrase “Mirza and Ayub set up series” perfectly defines the match as Salman Mirza’s fiery spell and Saim Ayub’s explosive batting powered Pakistan to victory in just 13.1 overs.
Early Breakthroughs – Mirza and Ayub Set Up Series Momentum
Right from the start, Mirza and Ayub set up series dominance as Salman Mirza ripped through South Africa’s top order with a sensational new-ball spell. Bowling with precision and pace, he removed Reeza Hendricks with just the second ball of the innings. Then, in his next over, Mirza deceived Tony de Zorzi with a clever leg cutter that flew to Abrar Ahmed at short fine leg. His third wicket came soon after when Matthew Breetzke was cleaned up by a slower delivery.
While Mirza was running riot, Naseem Shah joined the attack and dismissed Quinton de Kock with a change of pace, leaving South Africa reeling at 20 for 4. Mirza and Ayub set up series pressure right there, as South Africa couldn’t recover from the early collapse. Dewald Brevis tried to counterattack with three sixes but became the first of Faheem Ashraf’s four victims.
Ashraf bowled with sharp variation and excellent control, taking 4 for 23, while Mirza finished with 3 for 14 — both key in Pakistan’s dominance. Mirza and Ayub set up series rhythm as South Africa kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Ashraf dismissed Donovan Ferreira and George Linde in quick succession, reducing the visitors to 73 for 7. Despite small contributions from Corbin Bosch and Ottneil Baartman, South Africa couldn’t even reach 120. They folded for 110 in 19.2 overs, setting up a modest target for Pakistan.
Once again, Mirza and Ayub set up series balance through their early breakthroughs and bowling brilliance. Their teamwork ensured South Africa never found momentum in the innings, giving Pakistan complete control.
Ayub’s Explosive Chase – Mirza and Ayub Set Up Series Glory
In the chase, Mirza and Ayub set up series momentum continued as Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan came out with intent. The duo added 49 runs in the PowerPlay, playing elegant yet aggressive cricket. Farhan provided stability while Ayub went after the bowlers with authority.
Bosch dismissed Farhan in the seventh over, but that was South Africa’s only success. Babar Azam joined Ayub, putting his duck from the previous match behind him. Together, they formed a calm yet powerful partnership. Mirza and Ayub set up series celebration vibes as Pakistan dominated every over of the chase.
Ayub’s aggression hit its peak in the ninth over against Ottneil Baartman, where he smashed two fours and two sixes for 21 runs. In the next over, Mirza and Ayub set up series history as Ayub reached his maiden T20I fifty at home from just 29 balls. His confidence and timing were remarkable as he struck boundaries with ease.
Babar Azam quietly played second fiddle while Ayub continued to entertain. In the 14th over, Mirza and Ayub set up series victory was all but sealed when Ayub hammered George Linde for a massive 92-metre six over deep midwicket. A few balls later, he finished the chase with another towering hit, remaining unbeaten on 71 off 38 balls — including 54 runs in boundaries.
It was a statement performance by Pakistan — Mirza and Ayub set up series win through their all-round excellence. Faheem Ashraf’s 4 for 23, Mirza’s 3 for 14, and Ayub’s explosive 71* ensured a one-sided contest. Pakistan chased down 110 with ease, leveling the series 1-1 and setting up a thrilling decider.
From Mirza’s early breakthroughs to Ayub’s finishing fireworks, Mirza and Ayub set up series dominance in every aspect of the game. Their combined brilliance showed how Pakistan’s young guns are ready to shine on the big stage.
Final Scorecard:
South Africa: 110 all out in 19.2 overs (Dewald Brevis 25; Faheem Ashraf 4-23, Salman Mirza 3-14)
Pakistan: 112/1 in 13.1 overs (Saim Ayub 71*, Babar Azam 33*)
Result: Pakistan won by 9 wickets
Once again, Mirza and Ayub set up series heroics — a match Pakistan fans will remember for a long time.
SEE MORE:
